Culligan Blog

Did you know that water can vary by neighborhood, city and state? The water entering an apartment in New York City can be very different than the water in rural Washington State. Geography plays a major part in water quality. It can be a tricky thing. That’s why so many people rely on a local water expert – the Culligan Man.

This fall we’ve been talking a lot about problem water and contaminants. No one contaminant is alike and each one affects cities, states and regions differently. Nitrates in water is a perfect example. Nitrates are a potential contaminant in ground water originating from nitrogen, a plant nutrient present in inorganic fertilizers and animal manure (1). Water from rain or irrigation flows down through the soil into the ground water, picking up nitrates along the way (1). So, nitrogen in groundwater is more common in rural areas where there are farms (1). Nitrates in water are also seen in more densely populated areas due to fertilizers used on lawns, septic systems and other wastes (1).

The contaminants in water vary by how vulnerable your local water source is to contamination. This “vulnerability” of your water source varies, and is determined by how much nitrogen is present above the ground and in the soil, and how water percolates through the ground into your ultimate water source (1). Unless you’re a scientist or geologist, you’re probably wondering what that means. This map from the USGS helps explain where nitrates may be more likely to be present.

Do you live in one of the red areas on the map – such as in the Midwest or Northeast? Do you live in a rural or urban area? Call your Culligan Man today to see if your drinking water is susceptible to nitrates . Your Culligan Man is the local water expert, and he can help guide you through what is common in your area. He can also help you with testing of nitrate in water and other contaminants in your water. Culligan is #1 in problem water treatment, and we can help reduce nitrates and other contaminants in your water, including government certified testing options. So, call your local Culligan Man or Woman today.

*Nitrates in water and other contaminants in water are not necessarily in your drinking water.

Have you wondered how to detect and test for contaminants in your water? Has arsenic been reported in your community’s well water? It’s time for a lesson on arsenic.

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element, and is found in soil, rocks and minerals (1). Arsenic can enter the environment and ground water in a variety of ways – some natural and some unnatural. Arsenic is naturally released into the atmosphere due to erosion of natural deposits (2). It can also be released from farming, industrial and manufacturing processes (1) such as runoffs from orchards, fertilizers, mining, coal burning and electronics manufacturing (2). There are negative health effects associated with exposure and consumption of arsenic(2). Due to the health effects, it is important for consumers to be knowledgeable about the contaminants and risks associated with arsenic and other commonly occurring contaminants.

Drinking water is one way the human body can be exposed to arsenic. Municipal water is tested regularly and must meet EPA standards under the Safe Drinking Water Act (2). If arsenic exists in the water from a municipal supply, it is removed to meet EPA specifications before it is delivered to the system. If you and your family get drinking water from a private well, which is often the case for those living in the suburbs or rural areas; the EPA recommends you test your water annually (4).

Unfortunately, arsenic is a tricky contaminant because it is undetectable by human senses; it is odorless, colorless and tasteless (3). If you are concerned about the potential presence of this contaminant or if you know it is an issue in your area, it is recommended that you call a problem water expert. Your local Culligan Man can analyze your water, identify potential contaminants or impurities* and recommend a resolution.

One solution that Culligan offers is a Whole House Arsenic Reduction Filter. Tested and certified by the Water Quality Association, Culligan’s Whole House Arsenic Reduction Filters are built to reduce the presence of contaminants in water including, but not limited to, arsenic. On top of this, the filter continually monitors system’s performance and will alert you if service is needed. Culligan can continue to provide ongoing water tests, usually annually, both before treatment and after, helping document the performance of your system.

Remember, a great way to have peace of mind about your drinking water is to stay educated, and call a local water expert for help. Culligan is #1 in Problem Water Treatment.

*Arsenic and other contaminants and impurities are not necessarily in your water.

It’s marathon time here in Chicago, the backyard of the home of Culligan International Company. While this particular Culligan Man is not a pavement pounder, many of the local Culligan men and women and our customers around the world do participate in these long runs, and we admire their efforts.

Water is a key to successful hydration before, during and after exercise(1). Factors such as the duration and intensity of your workout will affect how much water you need to drink(2). The American Council on Exercise recommends the following as a guideline for drinking water when exercising:

17-20 ounces of water two to three hours prior to working out

8 ounces of water 20-30 minutes before exercising or during a warm up

7-10 ounces of water every 10-20 minutes during exercise

8 ounces of water 30 minutes after exercising

We at Culligan believe that better water resulting from water treatment and water filtration makes for a better water drinking experience. Better ice cubes do as well, but that is post-run story we will cover some other time. So grab your refillable water bottle, and fill up at your Culligan bottled water cooler, Bottle-Free® Cooler, or Culligan Aqua-Cleer® under sink drinking water system. Keep sharp eye out for your local Culligan Man at your race, run, jog, walk or crawl event. He can often be found with bottled water or filtered water at the ready. Tweet us some pictures @CulliganMan if you see him. No swag being offered for the pics just yet, but your photographic skills will be there for all to see.

Whether you will be running a distance of 26 miles or chasing after your kids on the playground, drinking water is vital to staying healthy, hydrated and happy. And let’s make sure it is great tasting water.

If you are running in a marathon this fall and are looking for some extra inspiration, check out the race highlights from the Chicago Marathon last year.

As a world leader in water filtration, Culligan water provides whole house water treatment and softener solutions for high-quality drinking water and soft water for your home. Culligan conditioning and soft water solutions include water softeners, water filtration systems, reverse osmosis water filters, and drinking water filters. Trust Culligan for better water, pure and simple. Find your Culligan Dealer here or contact Culligan International by clicking contact us.